The implementation of procedures for the reception and storage of materials and inputs, including raw materials, is of vital importance because they reflect the standardized processes for their correct handling. From their arrival until their disposal in production, which helps to prolong their useful life and to reduce waste costs, and therefore to maintain the quality and safety of the products grown and packaged by the companies integrated into our Veggies from Mexico community. Another advantage it offers is the focus on labor safety (facilities and personnel) if it is carried out based on a risk assessment.

Indispensable elements in the reception and storage procedures:

They should establish policies and/or technical requirements for reception, for example:

– Those incoming materials should correspond to what was requested.

– Perfectly protected and in optimal conditions for storage.

– Free of any contaminants (insects, dust, stones, mud, paint, etc.).

– Containers or packaging is not damaged and their legible labels, etc.

Handling and/or storage requirements, e.g.:

– Keep aisles and facilities clean and free of obstacles.

– The circulation in the aisles should be well regulated to avoid collisions and accidents.

– As in any work environment, good ventilation and lighting are conducive to good working conditions.

– Avoid the entrance of contaminants through dust, water, or grease that are adhered to the packaging of the inputs. 

– Delimit spaces between the products and the walls to facilitate cleaning and avoid pest nesting.

– Have Personal Protective Equipment according to the activities and risks to which workers are exposed.

– Store according to the type of product, material, and/or input.

– Store according to the policy of First In – First Out (FIFO) or First Expiry Date.

– Keep products, materials, and/or inputs organized in such a way that their counting can be done quickly and effectively, either in direct stowage or on shelves.

– It is very important that the loads are handled and stored in a balanced way and that they are well secured to prevent them from falling or detaching part of the merchandise.

– Record all incoming and outgoing materials and supplies.

– Have emergency exits marked and, of course, free of obstacles.

These rules must be made known to workers and it is very important that they are respected to avoid all kinds of accidents.

For this reason, Eleven Rivers Growers has chosen to include it within its own internal audit lists to evaluate it frequently in each of the operations of the companies that are members of the Veggies from Mexico community.